SIM Card Re-Registration to Go Queue-Free in June, Says Communication Minister
The Government is set to roll out a digital-first SIM card re-registration exercise in June, aiming to eliminate long queues and improve efficiency through an automated verification system.
Sam Nartey George, Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovation, outlined the initiative during a visit to Margins ID Group in Accra on April 8. The revised process will enable citizens to register their SIM cards online, reducing the need for physical visits to registration centers. Automatic verification mechanisms are expected to minimise manual processing times and enhance data accuracy.
“This streamlined approach will save citizens time and improve the registration experience,” George stated, underscoring the government’s commitment to digital transformation.
The SIM card re-registration initiative was launched in 2021, with the government repeatedly extending deadlines due to low compliance rates. The policy mandates that all SIM card holders link their numbers to the Ghana Card, the country’s national identification document, to enhance security and regulatory oversight.
Despite these efforts, millions of SIM cards remain unregistered, prompting concerns over potential deactivations. The initiative has also faced scrutiny over data security risks and the possibility of fraudulent registrations via mobile applications.
Authorities argue that a comprehensive and verified SIM card database is critical for combating digital fraud, improving consumer protection, and strengthening regulatory frameworks within the telecoms sector. The transition to an online registration system is expected to address logistical challenges while reinforcing Ghana’s broader digital infrastructure strategy.
